JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jaron Pierre Jr. shined for Jacksonville State, scoring 27 points as they narrowly defeated Georgia State 72-67 on Wednesday evening.

Alongside his scoring performance, Pierre contributed five assists, helping his team improve to a record of 2-1. Jamar Franklin was another standout for the Gamecocks, adding 19 points on a shooting performance of 7 for 15, including four 3-pointers out of twelve attempts. Mason Nicholson also made his mark with an efficient 12 points on 6 of 9 shooting while securing an impressive 14 rebounds.

For the Georgia State Panthers, Zarigue Nutter topped the scoring chart with 17 points and grabbed six rebounds. Teammate Toneari Lane matched Nutter’s tally, also scoring 17 points. Malachi Brown made significant contributions as well, finishing with 15 points, four assists, and two steals.

Despite a strong first-half effort by Franklin, who scored 11 points, Jacksonville State found themselves trailing at halftime, 41-31. However, Pierre took charge in the second half, netting 17 points that propelled his team to victory.